Thailand is a popular destination for many reasons. Its natural beauty and buzzing cities attract backpackers, honeymooners and two-week vacationers alike.
Thailand is the 9th most visited country in the world and over 38 million tourists visited the country in 2018.
With beautiful tropical beaches and rich Buddhist history, travelling to Thailand makes for an excellent trip to South-East Asia. With so much to do here, we will set out our top recommendations for the top things to do in Thailand.
Here’s our list of what to do in Thailand
- Learn how to scuba dive
- Go island hopping
- Visit a national park
- Explore Buddhist temples
- Take a trip to a floating market
- Stay in an overwater bungalow
- Immerse in royalty
- Sip cocktails on a rooftop
1. Learn how to dive
Thailand is an excellent and affordable destination for those wishing to experience scuba diving.
WIth different oceans on either side of the country (the Andaman Sea on the west and the Gulf of Thailand on the east), the opportunities for diving in Thailand are plentiful. Scuba enthusiasts who are wondering what to do in Thailand can dive at reefs, wrecks, caverns, tunnels and walls or at ocean seamounts.
If you are trying diving for the first time, Koh Tao island is a good place to enrol on an affordable PADI open water course and get certified. Koh Tao has appropriate conditions for beginners and a good selection of dive lodges to choose from. Always check carefully to ensure you sign up with a reputable provider.
The Similan Islands are an option for divers with advanced certification. Dive sites here are best experienced from a liveaboard boat, with a four-day four night-trip being the best trip length. See the PADI Thailand page for comprehensive information on all the many diving locations in the country.
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2. Island hopping
If you prefer to stay above the waves when planning what to do in Thailand, island hopping is an excellent way to experience the beautiful Thai coast. With over 300 islands to choose from, any visitor should aim to visit at least a few.
It is important to research carefully what style of island trip you want to experience. Some spots are excellent for relaxation whilst others are ideal for those looking to party. Koh Pha Ngan, for example, is famous for its wild ‘Full Moon Parties’, a festival held monthly which attracts thousands from around the globe.
Koh Phi Phi and its neighbouring islands (in the Andaman Sea) have picturesque beaches and turquoise lagoons. The Beach, starring Leonardo Dicaprio was filmed at nearby Maya Beach, although this can be closed to the public.
To get the best island hopping experience, hire a private longtail boat from Koh Phi Phi and set out very early in the morning (or later in the afternoon) to avoid the crowds.
On the other side of the country Koh Samui and its group of islands (including Koh Tao and Koh PhaNgan) are well trodden beach spots. Koh Tao in particular is a great place for keen snorkelers with reefs and vibrant marine life.
READ MORE: Here are the best islands to visit in Thailand
3. Visit a national park
Whilst Thailand is famous for its islands. beaches and Bangkok’s modernity, there are also places to escape into nature.
Just 3 hours drive from Bangkok is Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s third-largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Reaching across four provinces, this beautiful area has a stunning mountainous landscape with valleys and waterfalls. Visitors will also have the chance to spot a rich array of wildlife including thousands of different plant types, over 50 mammal species (including elephants, sun bears and Asian black bears) and more than 440 species of birds.
The best way to enjoy the park is to take a private wildlife tour which can range from 1 to 3 days and can be arranged through the Thai National Parks website.
READ MORE: Thailand hidden gems – Discover what makes Thailand unique
4. Explore Buddhist temples
Buddhism is practised by more than 95% of Thailand’s population of nearly 70 million and Theravada Buddhism is the official religion of the country.
When planning what to do in Thailand, visiting a few temples is, therefore, an important cultural activity.
There are many stunning examples to choose from and northern Thailand is a great place to base yourself for temple visits.
Chiang Mai alone has over 300 temples, the most famous being Doi Sutep which sits at the peak of Doi Suthep Mountain.
Chiang Rai is home to the famous ethereal white temple, Wat Rong Khun. Designed by a famous Thai artist, this famous temple is certainly worth a visit.
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5. Take a trip to a floating market
With all the colour and energy of a standard market, but with the added excitement of being on the water, floating markets are a key Thai experience.
There are a number of markets to choose from but Damnoen Saduak floating market is the most well-known and the largest. More fruit and food than you can imagine is sold in the narrow, boat-packed canals that are bordered by stilt houses made of wood. The floating market is located around 100km away from Bangkok and is absolutely worth the travel time.
If your schedule does not allow for this diversion, Taling Chan Floating Market, is only 12km away from downtown Bangkok and is open the whole day. Longtail boats can cruise you around the canals (klongs) and allow you a peaceful insight into the surrounding area.
READ MORE: Thailand transportation – The ultimate getting around Thailand guide
6. Stay in an overwater bungalow
There is no more perfect location for a relaxing trip than a private over the water bungalow, and Thailand’s striking coastline and islands offer plenty of opportunity for affordable idyllic settings.
The Blue Sky Resort on Koh Phayam (marketed as the Maldives of Thailand) has bungalows at an economic price and is surrounded by greenery for an enchanting ocean experience.
Panvaree Resort, located in Khaosok International Park is a tiny resort that is totally surrounded by water and mountains with sublime views across the lake.
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7. Immerse in royalty
As visitors, it is important to understand the importance of the Thai royal family. They are revered to the extent that you should not speak negatively of the king and should be careful to treat banknotes bearing his image with respect. The importance of the royal family to the Thai people also makes visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok an absolute must.
Since 1782, the Grand Palace has been the seat of kings, and it has also been home to several government offices. At 218,000 square metres in size and with throne halls and the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the palace is a stunning structure to walk around.
Remember to wear appropriate clothing as both men and women will need to have shoulders and knees covered.
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8. Sip cocktails on a rooftop
Bangkok is a frenetic and exciting city that certainly deserves some exploration. Once you have tired yourself out at the Grand Palace and a floating market, take some time to unwind by admiring the stunning skyline at one of the city’s rooftop bars.
Vertigo, at the Banyan Tree (61st floor) and CRU Rooftop Champagne Bar (59th floor) both, have excellent views across the city with a good drinks menu and make an excellent final addition to the best things to do in Thailand.
READ MORE: Thailand food and drinks – Exploring the tastes of Thailand
Thailand is a wonderful destination for city-explorers, scuba-divers, island-hoppers or beach-lovers. Get your flights booked to this stunning tropical location and take your pick from activities when you are planning what to do in Thailand.
Don’t miss out on our Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for
everything you need to know when planning your trip to Thailand
so you can make the most of your time in the Land of Smiles!
